Ask Sue — February 2010

Dear Sue,

Q.  My cat, Cali, a 3 year old tabby, bites me when I return from vacation and business trips and is very temperamental with strangers.  I am not sure what to do, any advice?  I am deeply concerned.

A.   Cali told me that she gets upset when you leave her and she says that she wants to know where you are going and for how long.  Sometimes too, she feels the person in charge of her while you are gone isn’t always timely with their schedule.

Cali gets bored and this isn’t just when you are out of town; she mentioned having a lot of energy for quite some time.  This energy builds up over time so when you get home, she releases it on you!  There are several reasons for her biting behavior. One is anger at you leaving her and the other is that she sees you as a litter mate.  I feel that some of her biting stems back to when she was a kitten and that she only had you and didn’t properly learn that you were not another cat.

When she gets ‘that look,’ remind Cali of your human skin and that you are different and show her what you want her to do instead of biting.  Animals will react to what we are thinking about, so focus on the behavior you want her to engage in.  The issue with strangers is just who she is and also goes back to when she was a kitten.  Cali mentioned that she doesn’t want them picking her up and wants to ‘call the shots.’  It’s a trust issue, so let her take her time when you have new people come over.

To help her feel more secure when you travel, make sure that you discuss with her your travel plans.  You can visualize to her your trip, showing her who will be taking care of her and for how long you will be gone.  Most importantly, visualize to her your return by showing yourself walking back through the door and greeting her.  Make sure that whoever is taking care of her talks to her while you are gone as well, letting her know when you will be coming back.

A.  Our dog, Buddy who is a cattle dog mix and a rescue animal, always seems nervous.  He is always looking for food, acting like he may not have another meal.  Recently he seems to be barking more and to be upset for reasons we can’t figure out.  Do dogs get dementia?  Buddy is 14 years old now.

A.  Yes, dogs can develop dementia in their later years.  To know if this might be true for Buddy, you would need to have a veterinarian make that diagnosis.  Sometimes when a dog ages, they can lose some of their senses — hearing and vision loss — which can make them react differently to certain situations.  While I cannot diagnosis illnesses or diseases, I did ask Buddy about his barking, his nervousness and food issues.

Buddy did convey that he had been engaging in some of his behaviors for a long time and mentioned that they came about at a very young age, especially his feelings about eating.  He mentioned that there was a time in his life when there was not a consistent feeding time and that there was some competition for food at feeding times; thus, he felt the need to eat like there may not be another meal.  Buddy also mentioned that sometimes his food just does not satisfy him.  However, Buddy also feels better when he eats, it’s a bit of security for him.

The barking has always been his way of communicating and releasing energy.  I also feel that some of this is natural for him because of his breed; as a cattle dog mix, wanting to keep control of situations.  It’s like he is sometimes herding you and your family up and asking you to only move around when he wanted, etc.  Buddy also told me that sometimes he doesn’t always feel that well and gets uncomfortable.  That’s what is causing some of his nervous feelings, he says, and that he is managing those feelings and using his voice to try and feel better.

I would really recommend that you take him to the vet and have them do a senior check up on Buddy, just to make sure everything is all right.  The other thing to keep in mind is that Buddy does read your thoughts, so if he picks up any worry or upset from you or other members of your family, he gets unsure as to what is going on.  It would be good to talk to Buddy, letting him know that everything is okay and that you are happy with him, because when you project to him feelings that you are happy and satisfied, he will feel like he did his job.

Ask Sue – January 2010

Dear Sue,

Q.  How should we best prepare for our animals’ care if we go out of town and have to leave our animal companions at home or at a pet care facility?

A.   As soon as you begin to prepare for leaving to go on a trip out of town you should begin to communicate to your animals about what will happen with them while you are gone.  You should also communicate to them your return back home.  Remember that your animals will mirror your own emotions around leaving them, so it is important that you project confidence, safe feelings about your trip and a good feeling about the arrangements that you have made for them while you are gone.

It’s a good idea to introduce your animal companions in advance to each person that will be coming into your home in advance to care for them.  If you have to board your animal at a facility, arrange for them to visit that place at least once before your actual trip.   Put together a photo album, along with special instructions and characteristics about each of your animals so that the person caring for them will know them well and know what to expect.  Don’t be shy about telling the providers that you want them to communicate to your animals while you are gone and would appreciate hearing daily on how they are doing.

While you are on your trip, tune into your animals daily, either at the close of the day or first thing in the morning.  The way to do this would be to get in a quiet space and take out their photo or visualize them, then say their names out loud. In that moment you have then made a heart-to-heart contact with them.  Imagine that they are right in front of you and that you can feel their body and then send them a big pink bubble, filled with love and joy and surround them in this color and feeling.  This will allow your animal to feel you and know that you are all right and that, “Gosh, you didn’t drop off the face of the earth somewhere.”  In this moment, you can then remind them of when you will be returning home.  You can either state how many more days to your return, or visualize yourself coming home and walking through the door to greet them.

Communicating with your animals about your plans about being away from home and tuning into them while you are away help your animals greatly and they will acknowledge this upon your return home by exhibiting less stress and upset, making for greater harmony and balance.

Q.  Why does my cat Rickie keep killing the birds when I ask him not to and when he knows I don’t like it?

A.  What Rickie told me is that for him there is no question about doing this, it’s just in him to do, it’s how he is wired.  He really gets confused by you asking him to stop, because he feels it is part of his job and in some instances has been a special present caught especially for you.  Rickie doesn’t like it, however, when you remove the bird before he is ready, he gets upset about this.

When I asked him if he had heard your request to stop, that is where he answered back with a question, “But why?”  He did soften up a bit when I explained further how we, as humans, view birds and their seemingly unnecessary death.  There is a clash here of points of view; Rickie sees the birds as part of his very being and adventure, with no thought that he will be causing death to a bird.  It feels just like a cycle to him, all very natural.  Rickie went on to explain that this process fulfills a need for him and that there are also times where he doesn’t feel he needs to go after the birds.

I went back over the request: could he please scale his hunting down and he in turn, asked for you to give him more stimulation or action in other areas of his life.  He loves it when you talk about him, how beautiful he is and would like you to acknowledge that he is a fine hunter.  I felt that even though you don’t want him to hunt the birds, if you acknowledge to him that he is skilled at hunting, he won’t need to keep proving it to you.

Sometimes when we convey information to our animals about things we don’t want them to do, they mis-read what we have said, and it backfires.  They feel our disappointment which they interpret that they need to keep trying harder, thus providing more of what you don’t want. Rather than visualizing Rickie killing birds or feeling disappointment when he does, send him pictures and images of what you do want him to do instead, reminding him of all the things that he does do that bring you joy and happiness.

Ask Sue — November 2009

Dear Sue,

Q. How do cats feel about being declawed? Can you share some of the effects from this procedure being done to cats?

A. I have communicated with quite a few cats through my work that have been declawed. I adopted a cat years ago, a female named Tilly who had already been declawed as a kitten. When we rescued her she was about a year old. Her behaviors were quite odd to us and at first and I didn’t understand them. Tilly was friendly, but yet she wasn’t. When my son tried to hold her, she would bite him. She always seemed be on the defensive, like she was on the lookout for something to come at her. She would also make strange movements with her body, like she had tics.

Since our family was unfamiliar with these behaviors, I immediately started to talk to Tilly to find out what was going on. Tilly began to send me impressions of how her body felt from the declawing procedure. She expressed the immense pain after the procedure, because not only was she declawed, but at the same time was spayed. She also said that her paws in the beginning would feel almost numb, but yet the pain was still there and it went up her leg. Tilly showed me that a part of her ‘went away’ to try and manage what had happened to her. Then the sudden terror that she felt she could no longer defend herself properly set in and that is what started her to fend off intrusions by biting. She was so sore in the beginning that she did not want any one to pick her up and just wanted to hide.

Tilly explained that her trust in humans changed and she approached all humans with some distrust and caution. I explained to her that we would never hurt her and that we would respect her feelings of being picked up and not do so unless she showed us that she wanted us to. These insecure feelings Tilly had not only included humans, but also other animals in our home.

Both our other cats and dogs worried her and she always felt that she had to watch out for herself. The constant feeling of being on edge often created the need for her to release her stress by peeing outside the litter box. Tilly would pee up on the kitchen counter because some of our other cats’ scents would be there. She would pee when we had any company come over, as the added stress was just too much.

Tilly explained that even though she did heal over the years, the comfort from not being able to express her claws onto a post or something, just would build up in her body instead. That build- up would be relieved either by her peeing on things or through urinary tract infections. I did feel that Tilly got some relief by sharing with me how she felt. This allowed me to also let her know that we would help her when she felt stressed. However, in spite of all our best efforts, she still suffered heavily for having this procedure done and I know was never the same.

Another declawed cat that I have helped has expressed his feelings about the procedure. His name is Max, he is a pure bred snowshoe. He was rescued by my client when he was about 8 months old. He had been declawed as a kitten. Because of this, he too did not want to be picked up or handled much. The humans he was living with at the time ignored his physical signs that he was in pain and picked him up any way. Max was so angry at what had happened to him and that they did not hear him that he began to bite.

Max felt that he came from an impeccable line of royalty in his blood lines and what they had done to him banished his idea of the great body he felt he came in with. Max felt forever crippled by this procedure. Now he is with a wonderful woman and other cats and is in the best of care; however he still can’t overcome what he feels had been done to his body. The anger sometimes drives him to unpleasant behaviors, which he has expressed he wishes he could let go of but simply cannot. Max mentioned that his anger has hardened him and not being able to feel as powerful as he has wanted, his stress has built up and he now has allergy and breathing issues and this also builds up pressure in his head.

Max does feel loved, but yet he says that he can’t let go of how his body feels so compromised. He says, too, that he is jealous of the cats that have their claws. He wants to feel superior so much that he will attack some of the other cats. Max even expressed that he wishes that he could pass on some of his anger to them, but it really only stays with him.

Both Tilly and Max really have said it all and that is…that declawing is a painful procedure, which rather than simply removing their claws actually cuts off the end of their paws, deforming their body and causing them to make unnatural adjustments that aren’t normal behaviors for cats. What humans thought they were doing with this procedure was only for the convenience of the humans, not to the cats. It seems the convenience instead has created more headaches actually, through inappropriate peeing outside the box, biting and developing early diseases of the kidneys, etc.

There are some countries that have outlawed this procedure from being performed and I believe there are several states that have presented legislation to stop it as well. I know I am personally in favor of this procedure being stopped, as well as the cats.

BEING THANKFUL

As the holidays are approaching I can’t help but think about how thankful I am for all the animals in my life. Each one of them has brought me so much joy and love that is beyond anything I could ever wish for, which they give it to me unconditionally. They wake with me each day not asking for anything but some simple gestures of love and hugs. The animals are my rock, my connection to all that really matters in this life, and that is to enjoy each moment, take nothing for granted and never stop loving. I am truly grateful for all the animals of all kinds and I thank them for their continued blessings they give us each day.

If you would like to pose a question for the next Ask Sue column, please send your question to asksue@satiama.com.

Ask Sue – October 2009

Dear Sue,

Q. Our dog Rooney passed away about four years ago — he was 15 years old. Rooney was a Chow/Elkhound mix with a beautiful red coat. Right before his death, he went to the front door and wanted to go out into the snow, so I let him out. He went out and laid proudly in the snow, but I was worried about him and went and carried him back in. Rooney died shortly after I brought him back in the house. I would like to know if I brought him in before he was ready, or if he wanted to pass in the snow?

A. In tuning into Rooney for you about that day, he said that you handled it well. He was looking for some relief from the transitional states that his body was going through at the time. Rooney was also saying to you that he was ready to cross over. He said that you always knew what he wanted and he understood your concern for him. He felt it was the best decision that you brought him back in the house. Rooney wants me to remind you that he loved hanging out in the living room as well and felt it was the center place of a strong union of love, which in the end, made it a peaceful transition for him to cross over. Rooney is by your side and mentioned that he was still attending to his ‘post.’

Editor’s Note: In her last “Ask Sue” column, Sue Hopple told us of the continuing story of Arizona, her beloved horse, who had surmounted many health obstacles. In this column Sue continues the story of Arizona.

Arizona’s Story

The days continued with just trying to keep Arizona’s pain levels comfortable with the least amount of pain relievers. Arizona had some days where he ate well and other days that he would not finish up his hay. I kept up a routine of cleaning up his back legs from the sores that had developed underneath his fetlocks. It was a constant battle to keep them from getting infected because of the moisture that collected from his fetlocks dropping almost to the ground.

I talked to Arizona every day about how wonderful he was and how much we loved him. I also talked to him about winter coming and that he needed to remember how they can be so hard here, with all the snow that can accumulate. He didn’t seem the least bit concerned about all that and would say “How about more carrots?” There was another issue I felt was loaming over Arizona’s survival — that was the prospect that he could get another infection all over again in his back legs. Because he was already in a weaker state, I knew in my heart that he might not be able to manage another serious infection.

I always ran some of my animal cases by Arizona and would ask him how animals would handle certain situations. I talked to him about my classes coming up and how busy I was. The Saturday morning of my class I mentioned to all the horses that I would be gone for the day and back that evening. Everything seemed well and in order that night when I fed all three horses.

On Sunday morning I noticed that Arizona’s back left leg had started to swell up again. It was also noticeable in how he walked, that he was experiencing more pain. I started him on a little bit more pain medication to help him out. Then by Monday, Arizona could barely walk. The infection had returned in the one hind leg. He didn’t want to eat much and I talked to him about what we might do. By Tuesday evening, I heard him tell me that he was getting ready to cross over. He was eating the best he could and was still enjoying his carrots that night. When I came into the house that evening I mentioned to my husband that I would need to call the vet and make arrangements maybe by Friday to let Arizona go. At midnight I checked in on Arizona and he was standing out in his paddock, looking out at the night sky towards the south.

Wednesday morning I went to feed the horses around 7 a.m. Immediately I saw my other horse, JD, looking at me with such an intense stare that I knew something was wrong. Arizona had fallen in his paddock and could not get back up. I went out to him and realized that I couldn’t help him up and covered him with a blanket to keep him warm. I knew that Arizona was helping me out with my decision about when to call the vet to come and put him down. I made the call, and the vet was on her way. Both my husband and I waited there with Arizona and kept petting his neck and face. Arizona then wanted to get up and he was determined to do it. Some how he managed on his own and we just got out of his way. When he stood, it was as if he was standing on ice. All four legs were moving so un-steady, that I just prayed he didn’t fall again, maybe into the railing. This was truly his way to cross over while standing, because he got up right as the vet’s truck was pulling up to the barn.

We walked Arizona very carefully out onto the grass lawn away from the barn and he even picked at some of the grass. There wasn’t a cloud in the sky and the sun was bright and warm. My husband and I both kissed him and said our good-bye. My husband held onto the lead rope and I stood back. Arizona gave my husband one last sweet nudge and stepped back. Everything around us was calm. The other two horses were watching, but were silent. Before the second injection was done, Arizona went down and I felt his soul leave in that moment. Then in that same second, a hawk flew over us and cried out three times. What a send off Arizona received! It was verification for us, too, that all was in perfect order. We all felt so special for that acknowledgment from the hawk.

So it was that Arizona crossed over on Wednesday, October 7th at 8:45 a.m. He has left a hoof print on our hearts that will be there forever.

Ask Sue – Sept 2009

Dear Sue,

Q. Can you give me some guidance on how to connect with my new dog, Penny? I was so completely connected with my first dog, Katey, who was put down after 10 wonderful years last summer. I would like to have that strong connection with my new dog that we rescued this past winter, but I don’t feel it yet. Any suggestions?

A. First of all, I am sorry to hear of your passing of your long time companion, Katey. I know how hard it is to have that special relationship with your animal and how it feels to suddenly not have them physically by your side. Often times, after years of developing that special relationship, we develop patterns with our animal(s), that make us into one heart and love. No words ever need to be spoken, because we just automatically understand everything they want and they know exactly how to meet our needs as well. So then when you have the situation of bringing in a new special animal energy, it may feel odd at first, because you don’t recognize the familiar patterns you once had with your other animal that passed. Thus, it seems harder to make a connection, because each of you are still a little off-track. By this I mean that you might still be expecting some of the same behaviors from Penny that Katey exhibited, and still be mourning the loss of Katey. Focus on what you would like Penny to do and give her some more time to catch up to who you are. Ask Penny why she came into your life at this time. If you are at a different point in your life now than you were when Katey came into your life, Penny might have a different feeling because your needs aren’t the same as before. Penny’s job will be different for you than Katey’s was. Let go of trying to feel the same kind connection that youhad with Katey, because my sense is that you do have a connection with Penny, it’s just coming across to you in a different way. By letting go of any pre-conceived feelings, you will open yourself to see how Penny is communicating to you. Every animal comes with a different set of reasons and lessons for us, some of which is just to teach us to open our hearts even more; reaching beyond our limits and expectations of about life and love. Penny is just so happy that you provided a wonderful home for her and will have no problem being patient as the two of you develop your journey together.

Dear Sue,

Q. I have decided to share the journey of my horse, Arizona, that we have been sharing these past few months.

Born April 30, 1991, named Bealadysman and registered with The Jockey Club, my wonderful horse companion has thoroughbred blood lines that extend all the way to champions like the proud Native Dancer. He came into my life when he was only 5 years old and I called him “Arizona,” because that was the state he came from, but besides that’s all I really knew about him, other than his small racing record. It was obvious from his record that something horrible had happened to him while training to be a racing champion. I purchased Arizona for my husband to be his riding buddy, mainly to ride casually. It then became obvious to us that Arizona had suffered numerous injuries from the track and seemed susceptible to hurting himself easily.

Arizona didn’t trust people, or me, in the beginning. He conveyed that information to me and was clear that he didn’t like to be touched much, especially around his head and ears. I knew this had to be because of how they handled him on the track. Arizona would test me all the time to see if I was on top of my game when I was around him. He would react very quickly at the slightest sound and almost plow me down while working in his paddock or in the cross ties. When I would be picking out the paddock he would take pot shots when I wasn’t looking and bite me in my butt and back. I have many shirts and pants that have holes in them: thankfully, however, my hide didn’t come off with each blow I took! As time went on I would constantly reassure him that he was safe and I wouldn’t do anything to him that would hurt him. I talked to him about who we were and want we wanted to do. I showed him pictures of peaceful rides and sunny days of leisure. We did do some of those things with him, but then he would do little things that re-injured his old injuries. These really took a toll on him and it became harder and harder for him to recover. One vet, after seeing the an ultrasound of his fetlocks, actually suggested we put him down at age 7.

After many discussions with my husband and Arizona, we said, “No way, we love him and his gift to us is way beyond simply riding him all the time.” We enjoy his proud spirit and how he managed to move through the pain that he would endure with each reoccurring injury. Arizona has a huge pain tolerance and that sometimes made it hard to figure out what he was dealing with. Off and on he had infections under his skin, but with a round of antibotics he would recover well. Then this past August he took a really bad dive. I went out one morning and he could hardly move at all. His back legs had swollen up to the size of tree trunks, with painful sores on his fetlocks. Not only that, both of his fetlocks had dropped, making it extremely painful on his back to sustain the pressure from no support. Immediately I called the vet out to see what we could do for him. In the meantime, I asked Arizona if he still wanted to stay here on Earth or was he ready to cross over, and he said “No, I am not ready to leave.” With that said I told the vet, “Let’s help him recover as best we can.” The vet wasn’t quite sure where to start with Arizona, as he had so much going wrong with him. I had to give him 5 days worth of penicillin shots that scared the heck out of me each time I gave it to him. I had to do this alone, as my husband was out of town. Knowing that this procedure was becoming painful for him, he did the best he could to help me by standing pretty still. Each day I would wonder if he might tell me he had “had enough,” but he still to this day he has not asked to be let go. Everyday Arizona had to be on a substantial amount of pain killers as well. This then caused stomach issues, so we had to administer Gastroguard to make sure he would still eat. He pressed on through all this, to our amazement, because my husband and I both knew he was in a lot of pain. He would actually lift my spirits up when he would ask to go outside the barn and eat the grass in the yard. Carefully, I would take him out there and let him graze, and I realized I had a Master Teacher at the end of my lead rope that was teaching me about life. Our lives aren’t always about conquering major items or events, but it’s the small things, like making it 20 feet without falling, and eating fresh grass, that brightens the spirit and makes life worth living. If Arizona can find such enjoyment amongst all this seeming pain and diagnosis of horrible issues, then I can certainly look at my life with a different wonder. I know that it’s the journey that counts — where we are going and the moments within this journey that count — not the end result. I thank Arizona everyday for giving me this gift to see through his eyes and for still wanting to be here to grace us with his royal presence. I know this is a continuing journey with Arizona, and will update you all as to how he continues to progress. He truly is a Great One and I only hope I can possess his strength and courage through the hard times.

Ask Sue – July 2009

Dear Sue,

Q. What makes dogs that are living in the same family since pups so different? Is it their breeding or do all dogs really have their own personality? We have two dogs and I can’t get over how totally different they are in behaviors and reactions. One is a male, Ty (lab/dalmatian/greyhound mix) and the other is a female, Molly (lab mix). The male is very sensitive and moody and follows me everywhere when I am home. The female is always relaxed and bothered by almost nothing, expect for cutting her nails.

A. Yes, they can each have their own personality, just as humans who are in the same family have siblings that are completely different from one another. It’s all a matter of how that animal interprets the information that they receive. I have found that a lot of times it can be how the dog’s parents were as well. Because like humans, certain traits can get passed onto the puppies from their Mom and Dad. I also feel that it can depend on the puppy’s first experiences from birth to when they go to a new home that can leave lasting impressions on them for life. Some breeds do exhibit different behaviors, based on what the breed was meant to do. Since Ty has some greyhound in him means he can get up and go pretty fast, thus making him more sensitive, ready to move quickly for the chase at any moment. Different breeding can create stronger impulses than others, that can make up a dog’s personality, because it was bred in them to do certain jobs and activities. I also know that dog’s will come into a new home and try to establish themselves into what they feel is their “pack” and will take on a certain role that fits for them. That is what I feel your male has done, he took it upon himself that his role was to follow the leader, which from his point of view, he views you as the leader of this pack, thus if he stays around you he will be safe at all times. I feel that somewhere after birth he had an experience that made him decide that if he hung near the leader he would always be safe. If he got too far away from the leader he was more unsure of what might happen. That might be because he was removed too young from his Mother and was frighten by this experience. Your female has a different view and doesn’t need as much security, as she feels she takes the lead a lot of the times. I feel that got passed onto her from her Mom, which was that she can go out and lead the pack. She also observes situations first and decides how she wants to react to them, conserving her energy for the real important events in her life. Her mode of thinking follows along the lines of food, the how and when of what will I eat. As for her nails and her not liking them trimmed, if her first experience was painful, it will leave a lasting impression and sensitivity to the toes. Try not to focus on the fact she doesn’t like it the next time you need to trim her nails, focus on what you want her to do, not what you are afraid she will do.

Dear Sue,

Q. Why does my horse seem to keep putting me into the wall in the corners of the arena when I ride and I also have a hard time doing a straight line off the wall?

A. This can happen when we don’t look beyond the space where we want to go. A green horse relies on your eyes to tell them which direction you want to go. This can also happen with an experienced horse who wants to see how much you know and are you paying attention. Once we establish we are going to the end of the arena we then need to look around the bend to the next place were we want to go. If one of our shoulders has a tendency to be weaker on one side, it will lean in and that will also cause the horse to not go where you want and lean the opposite way. As for the straight line off the wall, it’s the same thing, your eyes need to direct the horse where you want to go. If we let our attention wander and look too much at other things in the arena, this will cause you to go off your straight line. The horse not only feels if your focus changes, but can feel your head move to a different direction and they can pick up your thoughts if you are thinking about other things other than being present in that moment with your current task. Remember this too, if a horse can feel a small weightless fly on its body, it can feel when you change a direction with your eye focus and move your head.

Dear Sue,

Q. What are the different ways that cats use to tell us they are not feeling well?

A. It can really vary with each cat as to how they will communicate to you that something isn’t right with them. There are the obvious physical signs of when they suddenly stop eating or drinking water. Some cats will also start going outside of their litter box or even pee right in front of you or on your bed. This can also be that they are communicating that they are mentally stressed out and asking you what the hell is going on here. Cats love things not to ever change on them and will keep their same pattern every day. If you should notice that they have changed their routine some that could be a red flag to check them over. They may sleep on your bed every night and then all of sudden stop sleeping up on the bed and find them sleeping on the floor in another room or under your bed, dresser, etc. Hiding away more than normal or finding little spaces to crawl into, is another way they can let you know something is wrong. This is what one of my cats did when she got hurt. Then there was Felix, one of my other cats, who started this awful crying late at night around 2 a.m. and when I asked him what was wrong, he just said he felt he was “off”. Felix didn’t exactly know what was wrong, but his body to him didn’t feel right. When I took him to the vet, it turns out that he was having some liver/kidney issues, as well as his teeth needed to be cleaned. (The interesting thing about this for me, was that Felix never did stop eating.) Now, that doesn’t mean every cat that cries at 2 a.m. is got a physical problem, it’s just one method. I noticed it because it was a change for him and waking me up. I feel the key really is to pay attention to them when you notice a change and ask them if they are all right and even if you may not get an answer see if you feel anything inside of you in that moment that does not feel right. Or, you can call me and I’ll ask them!

Ask Sue – June 2009

Dear Sue,

Q. Are you able to communicate with an animal who has passed on?

A. Yes, I communicate with animals that have crossed over. I like to have a photo and some basic information. It is almost the same as communicating with animals that are still living, it’s just that animals that have crossed over don’t have the same concerns or issues any more, because they are in spirit. A lot of times I will get information that will verify the human’s feelings that their beloved animal has visited them and can tell you what signs they have used to try and get your attention.

Dear Sue,

Q. If animals live in the moment, why do they still react to things that happened to them in the past?

A. Let’s say your animal had a bad experience once with someone who hit them with a broom. Well, they will live in the moment by not stressing out about the past or future of this event, until all of a sudden they might see you pick up a broom to begin sweeping. It will then make them remember that at one time a similar experience caused them pain and therefore their instincts are telling them to react and move away. Unlike humans, who might dwell on an event from the past in the present moment and then worry about how it will affect their future, animals don’t do that and that is how they live in the moment. They stay in the present, which also means they stay more alert and can react faster to a situation if necessary. I feel this also helps animals conserve their energy for the right times, such as when they do have to deal with possible danger.

Dear Sue,

Q. Do animals come to us with specific purposes, and are they aware of them?

A. Yes, I feel they all have meaningful purposes in our lives. Animals come into our lives for various reasons, affecting us to change and grow. There may even be times when an animal has come with heartbreak and a lot of work, but when all is said and done, somewhere we find there has been progress and healing. Some animals that I have communicated with know exactly why they are with their humans, while there are others that just want to be with a human, but that also has a purpose. I remember asking one of my horses that came to me why he showed up in my life and this is what he said. “I came to force you to see your true potential and ability in communicating with the animals. To help you overcome your fears of failure and doubt. I came with information on what horses want and need and how it can improve our relationship with the humans.” One of my clients has a cat that served a purpose of watching out for her husband while he was ill, often tipping her off when he would stop breathing at night. This cat would lay by his side constantly, supporting him and at times encouraging him to hang on. Sometimes in animals we might see pieces of ourselves that we need to work on, helping us to change. Then there are other times that we are amazed at seeing our animals’ courage and strength as they battle their own illness. I would suggest taking some time to just be quiet with your animal one day and see what comes to you, which only may be a great, wonderful feeling of love and relief that all is well.

Ask Sue – May 2009

Dear Sue,

Q. I’d like to better understand how animals grieve and what their needs are during this process?

A. Animals grieve in many of the same ways that humans do. Some grieve and others don’t — or they don’t show any outward signs of grieving. Animals can grieve by not eating, standing over the bed of their loved one, or even moaning. Sometimes it depends on the particular relationship the animal had with their human or animal companion who has crossed over. I have found that animals will find comfort when they have other animals still remaining with them, as well as another human with whom they are close. Animals will also mirror the feelings of their human, because the animal has a close connection with their human so that they can feel all the grief that the human might be experiencing for the loss of their loved one. So, if you personally are experiencing a great deal of grief, your animal will, too. All it may take is letting them know that you will be okay and get through this, and that your love has not changed for the animal. You can comfort each other through this difficult time, so allow yourself and your animal to experience the grief process. Be patient and keep loving each other through it all.

Dear Sue,

Q. Is it true that when one animal dies, their animal companion may soon pass on as well?

A. Yes, I have found this to be true. This has happened to me personally several times. I had two cats that were brother and sister. It seemed that the sister was also the more dominate one of the two. The male, the brother was more timid and shy and allowed his sister to go first on everything. One day Chrystal was taken by a coyote on the other side of our fencing. I looked for her for days, but knew she had been killed. I knew the exact spot, as Henrich would not leave that spot. I had to catch him and lock him up in our bedroom. He moaned for her and I heard him clearly state, “I can’t make it without her and will leave as soon as I can.” I tried to stop that process by leaving him inside, but he was miserable and was just waiting. Finally after days, I let him out, thinking enough time had passed. That very night he too disappeared in the same spot as Crystal and let himself be taken by a coyote. When I communicated later with them both they relayed that they were of one soul. That made complete sense to me, as one was so much stronger than the other and balanced each other.

I also had two cats that were sisters, Ginger and Angel. They were close to each other, but displayed equal strength in their personalities. Once again, I found that Ginger had been taken by a coyote at a different point on our property. I knew this, as Angel, too, sat right at the spot near where Ginger had been taken. She sat their for over a week. She held a vigil at first for her return, and would even cry out. I told her that I felt Ginger had passed on. When she herself began to believe that Ginger was gone, she sat by the fence for a few more days and then stopped. Her grief was big, as in Henrich’s case, but Angel was also attached to one of my younger sons. At the time my son was only 4 and needed Angel. I asked Angel if she would stay to be with my son. I heard her agree, but knew we were on borrowed time. Then about six months later while we were on vacation, she decided it was time, and she too left this earth in the same manner as her sister, Ginger. Angel gave us a bit more time, but ultimately those two wanted to be together. It often depends on whether the animal feels their mission and purpose is here on earth as to whether they leave right away, or stay longer. Animals can choose to do the same when their human passes on, too. It is highly individual according to what the animal’s desires are at the time. Whatever the case, it’s no accident, all part of the plan.

Dear Sue,

Q. Can animals sense when another animal is getting ready to pass on and are they afraid for them?

A. Yes, animals can sense when another animal is getting ready to pass on. Often the animal that is getting ready to transition will communicate this information to the other animals in the household. They feel it helps the human(s) and others to know their plans and to help prepare for their departure. Animals find the process of leaving the body a natural function and will allow it to happen. They are not afraid of death, but can pick up their human’s fear and react to that emotion. Humans may not always be aware that our animals are helping us through the process of their own dying. If we would just stop and take note, we could see and feel that they do comfort us and try to let us know that everything will be all right. They act as a wonderful grounding rod, sending us so much love and affection that we can feel comforted in knowing we are not alone in this process with our beloved animal companion.

Ask Sue – April 2009

Dear Sue,

Q. Why is my dog afraid of thunder?

A. I have talked to many, many dogs about this particular issue. Many of them tell me the following: “I can feel a squeeze in my head and the sound I can’t identify, but my instincts are telling me that I need to take cover, as I feel like something will come down upon my body. Not knowing what this sound is makes me afraid and I also know it must be bad, as my (human) person is afraid too. I don’t like the feeling in my head and ears.”

Here is a suggested remedy:
Help your dog by being calm yourself and don’t anticipate the fear of thunder for them. Then, provide a safe place for them to go into – perhaps a walk-in shower or bathtub or even under the bed, if they prefer. It is also helpful if you have another sound in the room to help them, either music or even the fan in the bathroom. You can also massage their head and ears. Reassure them in a calm voice that they are safe and you will stay with them.

Dear Sue,

Q. Why does my cat always go to the person in the room who is allergic to cats, or does not like cats?

A. I have been asked this question countless times. Cats tell me that “it’s the fact that these people [who are allergic or have an aversion to cats] don’t seek us out but instead withdraw that we find intriguing. There must be something we need to know about them, and they need to learn from us, so that they understand our superiority in our world. Actually, the more they withdraw, the more fun it can be for me. Allergies? We don’t understand that and it does not bother us. My (human) person seems to be so afraid of me seeking certain people out that I have to go to them to see what it is all about.”

Suggested Remedy:
Cats are very sensitive to human energy. When a person is not interested in cats, their energy is drawn inside of themselves. To a cat, this feeling is actually less threatening, and creates a comfortable atmosphere in which they believe they can approach that person without being picked up or cuddled. Cats, especially, like to be asked first before being petted or picked up. So, if you don’t prefer cats, you will need to push out your energy a bit to them, almost like creating a barrier. Instead of pretending that you don’t see the cat by not acknowledging them, instead, greet them by their name. They will appreciate it very much and will go on their way. This also works well if you have allergies to cats. If you are the human who is having someone over that has a cat allergy, allow your fear about your cat bothering your friend to dissipate. Send your cat a picture to go into a different room. Act as if this person is no different than anyone else that you have had over to your home.

Dear Sue,

Q. Why did my horse buck when I rode him?

A: This question can have many answers, but here is one answer compiled from information horses have frequently given me. “I have been trying for months to tell my person that my back has been hurting, but they are not hearing me. It especially hurts when they seem to fall forward and then suddenly sit back hard on my back. They keep insisting on trying to get me to do certain moves with my body that I feel I can’t do. Also, the saddle then squeezes my back. It hurts so bad that I have no choice but to get my person off my back!”

Suggested Remedy:
Try to be sensitive to when you are doing a different exercise that your horse has not experienced before. Make sure their muscles can endure what you want them to accomplish, and that they have the strength to do them. Also, be aware of the position of your body and where it is in the saddle. Move with the horse, not against them. Remember that you are not a sack of cement up there on the horse’s back. Have your saddle checked by your vet to make sure that it is properly fitted to your horse’s back. At the same time, have your vet check the horse’s back for any soreness or irregularities. Before they go to the extreme of bucking, horses have usually given you a prior sign or many signs. Pay attention to your horse the entire time you are riding. If something doesn’t feel comfortable to you, it probably doesn’t feel comfortable to your horse, either.